Choosing a cat tree: what to look for

Cats want to scratch, climb and curl up somewhere quiet. If your cat has no place of its own for that, your sofa, curtains or rug will bear the brunt. A cat tree gives your cat a fixed place to play, scratch and sleep. But which height do you choose, and which features are really useful? In this buying guide we set it all out.

Why a cat tree?

Scratching is natural behaviour. Your cat uses it to keep its claws in condition, stretch its muscles and leave its scent. You cannot train that behaviour out of your cat, but you can steer it. If there is a cat tree that is more attractive than your sofa, your cat will often choose it by itself. Climbing and looking out also keep your cat busy, especially if it spends a lot of time indoors.

Step 1: choose the right height

Not sure? Look at your cat's behaviour. If it likes to sit on the cupboard or the windowsill, choose a taller tree. If it prefers lying on the sofa, a lower model with a soft resting spot suits it better.

Step 2: which features does your cat want?

• Scratching ramp: on the Kyros, the ramp at the bottom works as a ladder and scratching board, so even kittens can climb up easily.
• Sisal scratching posts: for a good scratch, as on the cat tree with hammock and house.
• House or cuddle cave: a hiding place where your cat feels safe. The Kyros has a cuddle cave with 2 entrances.
• Hammock and basket: several places to nap, as on the cat tree in cream beige.
• Lookout platform: for looking around or sleeping at the top.
• Play balls: for extra fun in between.

Step 3: stability and maintenance

Most cats leave a wobbly cat tree alone. So look for a sturdy base. The Kyros is made of wood-based material with a reinforced base plate. If you want to keep the cat tree clean easily, choose a model with a washable cover. On the Khanaris, the cover of the top part is removable and washable.

Where do you put the cat tree?

• By the window: cats love looking outside.
• Next to the sofa or the furniture your cat currently scratches, so it has a better alternative.
• In the living room, where you are too. Cats often prefer company to a quiet corner in the attic.

Choosing a colour

A cat tree is on display, so it may as well suit your interior. Beige and cream beige are light and calm, light grey and dark grey suit a modern interior well.

Read also

• Choosing products for your pet: a place of their own for your dog or rabbit
• Furnishing your garden and balcony: shade and a comfortable spot to lie down

View all cat trees. Ordered on a working day before 15:00, shipped today, shipping is free and you get free 30-day returns.